“Sister Harris! How old are you?” asked Lincoln Smith, English Ministries director for the Greater New York Conference.
With a joyful sparkle in her eye, she eagerly responded, “I am 100 and some days old!”
The room erupted with a collective, “Glory to God!”
Members of the North Bronx church commemorated Florence Harris’ milestone with video tributes curated by the church’s media team. The tributes were presented during a special celebratory visit, allowing the family to enjoy a private celebration on her actual birthday.
Smith was joined by several North Bronx church leaders: Fred Nichols, senior pastor; Dexter Smith, associate pastor; Benjamin Powell, former first elder; Michelle Lewis, Senior Ministries director; Pauline Archer, former assistant director for Senior Ministries; and Melbourne Francis, media team representative.
Harris’ family expressed deep appreciation for the church’s enduring love and shared reflections on the life and legacy of their beloved centenarian.
Florence Graham was born in 1926 to Louisa and Thomas Graham in Westmoreland, Jamaica. One of nine siblings, she grew up surrounded by the energy of a large family—an experience that helped shape her own role as a devoted matriarch. In 1954, she married the love of her life, Milton Harris. Together, they had four children: Marcia, Maxine, Steve, and Ira.
With courage and vision, Harris migrated to the United States in 1967 to build a new future for her family. Milton joined her the following year, and the family was reunited in 1972 when their children came to the United States.
Harris’ life has been defined by the abundant love she gives to others. She balanced discipline with indulgence while offering her family unwavering devotion. After raising her children and delighting in her grandchildren, she now finds immense joy in her great-grandchildren.
Her faith and commitment to the church have remained a constant compass, guiding her life and inspiring those around her. At 100, she remains independent, determined, delightfully opinionated, and—as her family fondly observes—still very much in charge.
Surrounded by her “village” of relatives, friends, and church members, Harris continues to be deeply loved and celebrated.
— Michelle Lewis, Senior Ministries director, North Bronx church
